Thematic report |
Good practice in mathematics at key stage 3 - February 2015
This report is published in response to a request for advice from the Welsh Government in the Minister’s annual remit to Estyn for 2013-2014. The report examines standards in mathematics at key stage 3 and the factors affecting achievement, and includes case studies of best practice.
Recommendations
Mathematics departments should:
- monitor the performance of pupils eligible for free school meals and offer targeted interventions as necessary
- meet the needs of pupils who experience difficulties or are more able
- increase the level of challenge for all pupils by making sure that:
- lessons are structured to engage, motivate and stretch all pupils
- mathematical problem-solving skills are developed and applied to a wide range of real-life contexts
- ensure that assessment and tracking procedures are robust
- improve departmental self-evaluation and improvement planning
- share best practice across the school and evaluate new ways of working
Local authorities and regional consortia should:
- facilitate networks for sharing best practice between mathematics departments
- provide support, challenge and professional development opportunities for mathematics departments and individual teachers
The Welsh Government should:
- investigate the difference in outcomes between boys and girls in mathematics
- address shortages in the supply of qualified mathematics teachers
Best practice case studies
- Cardiff High School, Cardiff
- Cwmtawe Community School, Neath Port Talbot
- Caerleon Comprehensive School, Newport
- Cardinal Newman R.C. Comprehensive School, Rhondda Cynon Taf